Job seekers and incumbent employees in the state of Massachusetts are soon getting a safety makeover. Thanks to the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund and the Patrick Administration, close to $5 million has been allotted to improve the skills and training of these individuals. This is not going to help to get people back to work, but it’s going to help to make sure that their safe on the job.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Labor, this program and these funds are designed to bridge the gap between the skills of workers and the skills that employers require (especially those that require more than a high school diploma, but less than a 4-year degree).
Our Boston workers’ compensation lawyers understand that it’s critical for all workers, regardless to scholastic education level, to be properly trained for each and every job position that they hold. With these funds, we’re hoping that each and every employee gets a thorough on-the-job education to help to eliminate the risks of accidents, injuries and fatalities at work. Each year, there were more than 4,600 people killed on the job in the U.S. in 2011. That means that there were close to 13 work-related fatalities recorded each and every day.
Through the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund, there will be close to 20 partnerships between education and workforce organizations and employers. These partnerships will range from vocational tech schools, community colleges, workforce investment boards and career centers. With the help of these partnerships, officials with the Massachusetts Department of Labor believe that close to 1,000 people will be able to be trained (mostly those who are seeking employment), in a variety of industries.
And according to the latest numbers from the United States Department of Labor, the number of unemployed workers is on the decline. In the week ending August 10, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 320,000, a decrease of 15,000 from the previous week’s revised figure of 335,000. The 4-week moving average was 332,000, a decrease of 4,000 from the previous week’s revised average of 336,000.
Unemployment Insurance gives temporary cash payments to people who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Health care coverage for workers who are getting unemployment benefits is available through the Medical Security Program.
But we all know that working is the best way to get experience, to advance your career and to earn a better living along the way. You just want to make sure that you’re safe while doing all three. This is why it’s critical to make sure that you’ve got the proper training and safety equipment needed before a job begins. Talk with your employer today if you notice any discrepancies. You have a right to speak up to your employer if you feel that you don’t have the proper training or if you aren’t provided with the proper safety equipment. This is your right as an employee and it’s your right to a safe work environment.
If you or a loved one has been injured on the job in Massachusetts, call Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your workers’ compensation claim– (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Wal-Mart Undergoes Complete Safety Makeover, Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Blog, August 15, 2013
New England Work Injuries and the Risk of NOISE in the Workplace, Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Blog, August 13, 2013